Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the steak will start cooking immediately on a hot surface.

Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a better sear.

Brush each steak lightly with olive oil. This not only helps to transfer heat but also aids in creating a delicious crust.

Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with garlic powder and lay a sprig of thyme or rosemary on top for extra flavor.

Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the time depending on the thickness of your steak and desired doneness: a few minutes less for rare, a few minutes more for medium or well-done.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak has reached the desired internal temperature: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, 155°F (68°C) for medium-well, and 165°F (74°C) for well-done.

Once cooked to your liking, let the steak rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy steak.

Serve your air fryer steak with your favorite sides, such as a salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.